California Governor Seeks $25M Legal Fund to Counter Trump Administration

Gavin Newsom proposes new funding to bolster state legal defenses against anticipated federal policies under President-elect Donald Trump.

Governor Gavin Newsom has requested $25 million from California lawmakers to establish a litigation fund aimed at opposing potential federal overreach during Donald Trump's second term.
The proposed fund would support legal battles on issues such as abortion rights, climate change, immigration, and safeguarding state funding for vital services like disaster relief and healthcare.
California previously filed 122 lawsuits against the Trump administration during his first term, spending $42 million but reportedly saving billions for the state through successful legal challenges.
Republican critics argue the proposal is a waste of taxpayer money, accusing Newsom of prioritizing political ambitions over pressing state issues like homelessness and education.
Newsom defends the initiative as essential to protecting Californians' rights and freedoms, emphasizing the state's readiness to collaborate with the federal government while preparing for legal disputes if necessary.